All I read before posting this was the initial thread. I thought(feared) some other views may put a slant on how I put my reply!

I'm a legal firearms owner in Canada(bit of a cowboy though)!
All my firearms are registered(including long guns)! I own tools that are registered, so why not my firearms? I do have issues with the P.A.L., but that's another story!

I see no reason to carry a firearm "without purpose"!

Firearms, to their owners, are a lot like dogs to some people; You own one or more. You use it(them)properly. You maybe have a favourite. You treat them all with tender loving care and respect. You provide for their safety and security. You would only turn it loose on a person if you had no other choice.

But, you don't need to take them out for a walk!